1. Call to Order: Kevin Christie calls the meeting to order at 7:01 PM.

2. Public Comments

Peter Merrill comments on the Board’s decision not to place the construction of a track on the upcoming ballot. Mr. Merrill clarifies that the Board’s decision was made based on the legality of what the Board was being asked to do and the decision was made in light of the guidance provided by the Board’s attorney. Mr. Merrill also discusses the appropriate routes through which issues can be brought before the Board and considered for discussion and voting.

Lori Dickerson shares with the Board photos of the old Hartford swimming hole taken in 1957. Ms. Dickerson also comments on the tragic school shooting that took place in Florida today. The Board expresses their sympathies for the members of the impacted community.

3. Changes, Additions and Approval of Agenda

Peter Merrill moves to validate and ratify the call and conduct of the January 24, 2018 meeting of the Board of School Directors of the Hartford Town School District, and to confirm in all respects the actions taken thereat. The motion is seconded. A unanimous verbal vote passes the motion (5 yes, 0 no).

Policy EL 9.4 Communication and Support to the Board – Incidental Information

Noel Bryant, Assistant Superintendent, informs the Board that the Integrated Field Review was recently conducted in the Hartford School District. Ms. Bryant explains the process the district underwent and that a report will be coming soon with commendations and recommendations.

Ms. Bryant also presents the Board with the Annual Town Report

Tom DeBalsi, Superintendent, informs the Board on the status of several initiatives the district has had underway. This includes the campus parking project, HMMS elevator, and solar technology initiative. Mr. DeBasi explains that the approved campus parking plan has begun being implemented and the HMMS elevator has completed construction.

Policy EL 2 Relationship with Students, Parents and the Community

New Town/School Recreation Fields/Facilities Committee Initiative

Jeff Moreno, HHS Assistant Principal, presents the Board with information regarding a joint venture between the school district and parks and recreation department to revitalize the recreation facilities used by the schools and town. This includes the creation of a committee to take on a systematic and comprehensive approach to this initiative to build sustainably.

Policy EL 4 Financial Conditions and Activities

FY 19 Budget – February 26 Presentation, Informational Materials

Doug Heavisides, Director of the HACTC, presents the Board with his suggestions for a social media outreach strategy. Mr. Heavisides explains the benefits of an increased, sustainable social media presence and the impacts it would have on community opinion of the Board’s decisions.

Monitoring Reports:

GP 5 Board Chairs Role

To be revisited.

Policy GP 3 Board Job Outcomes

Board Member Committee Reports

Hartford Community Coalition (Russell): Tentative new location for Take a Bite Out of Hunger program at the White River School.